From the Iowa DNR:
VENTURA – Boaters launching from the Ventura Access and McIntosh Woods boat ramps are advised to only back their trailer down as far as necessary to prevent their trailer from slipping off the end of the concrete ramp.
The problem occurred when scour holes developed at the end of the ramps from boats powering on to trailers. If the trailer backs off the concrete pad, the wheels will fall in to the hole dropping the trailer frame on to the ramp.
Making the issue more challenging is the lake level is 10 inches below crest. Signs marking the end of the ramps are on the courtesy docks.
The ramps, built in the 1980s when boats and trailers were much smaller, are scheduled to get extended this summer.
Scour holes also exist at the Ritz, Clear Lake Boats and City Park ramps, but ramp length and water depth are preventing similar issues from arising there. If the lake level continues to drop, that could change.
